June 28, 1933 – January 31, 2025
It is with a heavy heart and sadness, the family announces Eric’s passing on Friday, January 31st, 2025, in his 92nd year.
He will be greatly missed by his daughters Armi (Leif) Frostad, and Marilyn (Don) Reid. Grandchildren Britt (Blake), Kris, Kaila (David), JT (Ashley), and Callum (Nigel). Great-grandchildren Kennedy and Lincoln. Also mourning his passing is his wife, Anneli (Pykäri) Yli-Renko, her sons Kari (Marquita), Paul (Mary Ellen), and daughter Leena. Grandchildren Brittany, Bethany (Patrick), Kyle (Andrea), and Teija (Nigel). Great-grandchildren: Ava, Olivia, Nixon, Beau, Ophelia, Jack and Jace.
The patriarch of the Ruhanen family is survived by his sisters Ulla and Pirkko in Canada, and Leena in Finland. Predeceased by his brothers Seppo and Jussi along with sisters Raili, Leila, Orvokki, and Sirkka. He is fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews and their families in both Canada and Finland.
In 1958, Eric immigrated from Finland with his wife, Alli (Hyötyläinen - predeceased 1998). A skilled craftsman, he used his woodworking talents to build homes and furniture, with one of his fondest memories being as a boy scout, building windows for the scout camp. Eric was a proud member of the Carpenter’s Union for 50 years, often working as General Foreman at Algoma Steel while overseeing hiring in the construction industry.
He found peace in nature, especially in the woods, by the lake, and in the sauna. Fishing, both summer and winter, was a passion. Eric was also active in sports, serving as secretary for the Mäntyharju sports club in Finland and supporting the Soo Finnish Ski Club in the 1960s. He loved watching hockey and the Olympics. Eric’s love of music was evident in his involvement with the Kaleva Men’s Choir.
His faith provided guidance throughout his life. He was an active member of St. Mary’s Church in Sault Ste. Marie and St. Matthew’s in Sudbury. He spent countless hours volunteering at Hannah Lake Bible Centre using his carpenter skills for maintenance and construction. Hannah Lake holds a special place in his heart.
But Eric’s proudest accomplishments were his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Pappa always kept the family smiling, laughing with his quick wit and sense of humour. He lived life not with his cup half empty but with his cup mostly full.
Armi and Marilyn would like to thank Anneli and the Yli-Renko family for their continued love and support throughout the years.
We thank the staff at Health Sciences North Emergency Department, South Overflow, and South 5th Floor for their compassionate assistance during his final stay. We would also like to thank the doctors and specialists for their care over the years.
A Celebration of Life will take place this summer at Hannah Lake Bible Centre, Sudbury, Ontario on Saturday July 5, 2025. A family interment will follow in August in Sault Ste. Marie. Donations to the Hannah Lake Bible Centre, Sudbury would be appreciated. E-transfers can be forwarded to: office@hannahlakebiblecentre.ca. Arrangements entrusted to the Lougheed Funeral Home. For donations or messages of condolence contact Lougheed Funeral Homes, Sudbury, Ontario at: www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com.
We will always remember and hold close to our hearts, how Isä/Pappa ended every conversation “I still love you”.
Psalm 23:1-2 Herra on minun paimeneni, ei minulta mitään puutu. Hän vie minut vihreille niityille, hän johtaa minut vetten ääreen, siellä saan levätä.